'I'm ready': Wallis wants back in after VFL return

Western Bulldogs midfielder Mitch Wallis has declared himself ready to return to the AFL ranks after starring in his first game back from injury on Friday night.

But it appears everyone will be happy for the 23-year-old to bide his time rather than play in next Saturday's clash with Richmond at Etihad Stadium.

Wallis took part in Footscray's 124-point VFL win over North Ballarat at Whitten Oval, completing his recovery from a badly broken leg.

He broke both bones in his left leg when he was tackled while attempting to kick the ball during the Bulldogs' loss to St Kilda in July last year.

WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT

He found plenty of ball in the VFL last night and produced, kicking three goals from 34 disposals.

The No.3 also made 11 tackles and told the AFL website he felt comfortable despite the memory of his break.

"I was able to play with freedom, which was nice, because I got tackled a few times and made a few tackles and (it) didn't really cross my mind," he told AFL.com.au.

Beveridge had not been briefed on Wallis's performance when he spoke to reporters after the club's AFL loss to GWS in Canberra last night.

The coach was relieved to hear it went well but said another week in the VFL loomed.

"It'd be a bit of a stretch, first game back after so long off," Beveridge said.

Wallis, for his part, agreed, despite feeling positive about his efforts.

"In terms of how I feel, I'm ready, but I'll just go by the physiotherapist's call and (Beveridge's) call," he told AFL.com.au.